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Two Rivers
Parson Allen Hartman leaves behind everything he holds dear to embark on a cross-country expedition to minister to the Indians in the Oregon Territory. But his journey is waylaid in Arapaho country, and Allen is asked to stay in the village of Two Rivers --who has been waiting for the White Falcon to show up and aid his people's battle against a malevolent shaman. And even as Two Rivers teams up with White Falcon, Allen is enslaved in a cave and dependent on the prayers of Spirit-led believers for complete victory --or will something be left undone?
342 pages, Paperback
Published April 10, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
August 20, 2020
If I had to choose only one word to describe Michael Henry’s “Two Rivers”, it would be intriguing. It is a story unlike any I’ve read, and one that will remain in my thoughts for a long time to come. What sets it apart in my mind is the unique combination of elements; it is a Western, a survival story, an Oregon Trail missionary journey, and a spiritual warfare novel. At times it takes on aspects of the supernatural, and there is an aura of suspense as well. Quite unusual for a work of Christian historical fiction, yet the author weaves it all together excellently. The title, too, shows forethought; at first blush, it seems to refer simply to one of the main characters, yet I surmise that it also symbolizes divergence from the mainstream course and, naturally, good vs. evil.
Set in 1840, “Two Rivers” demonstrates the prejudices of the time period. From Violet’s aversion to a life in the wilderness to the manner in which the Methodist Episcopal ministers in the missionary band avoid their fellow Negro pastors to the prevailing view of the Native Americans as ignorant heathens, the behavior of those who should know better and be more loving is made apparent. However, this serves to highlight the true light of Christ while acknowledging the uncomfortable truth about racism, which sadly still exists today. The fact that Henry took the time to include this rather than whitewashing the novel and portraying all of the missionaries as angels of mercy enhances my respect for and appreciation of this book. Part of a conversation between Gloria and Pastor Allen Hartman, both part of the missionary group to take the Gospel to Indians in the far-off Oregon Territory, indicates their awareness of the Native American culture. Gloria remarks: “We travel with a wagonload of material possessions, and they have just the essentials. We live such a complicated life. I can’t see them as savages anymore.” Allen follows this by saying: “How can we expect them to understand what our culture has developed over centuries? We have to walk in their shoes, not make them walk in our ours. The commissioning makes sense to me now.”
Without a doubt, the spiritual warfare is what sets this book apart. Henry skillfully employs foreshadowing to alert readers to impending conflict. There are just enough chapters focused on the antipodal Arapaho men, one a malicious witch doctor and the other a medicine man, to build tension. As the missionary group and the Native Americans come closer to converging, the suspense likewise crescendos to a battle for survival. The way in which Christianity and Native American religion meet each other in this book is interesting and, again, distinguishes this from any number of other novels with similar settings or themes. A timely reminder of the apostle Paul’s words in Ephesians 6:12: “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Let’s remember to put on the armor of God daily as we follow His marching orders!
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
Set in 1840, “Two Rivers” demonstrates the prejudices of the time period. From Violet’s aversion to a life in the wilderness to the manner in which the Methodist Episcopal ministers in the missionary band avoid their fellow Negro pastors to the prevailing view of the Native Americans as ignorant heathens, the behavior of those who should know better and be more loving is made apparent. However, this serves to highlight the true light of Christ while acknowledging the uncomfortable truth about racism, which sadly still exists today. The fact that Henry took the time to include this rather than whitewashing the novel and portraying all of the missionaries as angels of mercy enhances my respect for and appreciation of this book. Part of a conversation between Gloria and Pastor Allen Hartman, both part of the missionary group to take the Gospel to Indians in the far-off Oregon Territory, indicates their awareness of the Native American culture. Gloria remarks: “We travel with a wagonload of material possessions, and they have just the essentials. We live such a complicated life. I can’t see them as savages anymore.” Allen follows this by saying: “How can we expect them to understand what our culture has developed over centuries? We have to walk in their shoes, not make them walk in our ours. The commissioning makes sense to me now.”
Without a doubt, the spiritual warfare is what sets this book apart. Henry skillfully employs foreshadowing to alert readers to impending conflict. There are just enough chapters focused on the antipodal Arapaho men, one a malicious witch doctor and the other a medicine man, to build tension. As the missionary group and the Native Americans come closer to converging, the suspense likewise crescendos to a battle for survival. The way in which Christianity and Native American religion meet each other in this book is interesting and, again, distinguishes this from any number of other novels with similar settings or themes. A timely reminder of the apostle Paul’s words in Ephesians 6:12: “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Let’s remember to put on the armor of God daily as we follow His marching orders!
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
August 17, 2020
This book is one I found very intriguing. I liked how the author chose to talk about spiritual warfare in the setting of the 1840s. The story is loosely a western type book but oh my does it dig deep into demons, witchcraft and other subjects that are uncomfortable for some. I liked how the story follows Allen on a missionary trip where unexpected things are bound to happen.
It is quite clear that Allen knows God has called him to this mission and his determination is very heartfelt. I loved how obedient he is to the Holy Spirit as his travels take him among the Native Americans . Being part Comanche I was very interested in how the author would portray Native Americans and how he would use Allen to minister to them. I liked the biblical stories the author uses as he shared Allen’s travel . Abraham and Sarah lived in tents and traveled a great distance much like the Native Americans do in this story.
The author does an excellent job of showing Allen going to live with Two Rivers and learning about their culture. It is a very impressive depiction of the Native American life. Allen faces danger yet his steadfast faith will see him through . I loved how the tribe shared stories with Allen and allowed him to share Jesus with them. I absolutely loved the book and didn’t want it to end. There are nuggets of wisdom in this story that I found to be very well written. Can we be as faithful as Allen and witness to others? What can we learn from other cultures? Obedience, faith, trust and God’s love is felt as Allen encounters evil trying to kill him. The ending is so powerful I wanted to scream with joy. I am hoping the author is writing another book because I can’t wait to see what the Lord has laid on his heart through a story.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
It is quite clear that Allen knows God has called him to this mission and his determination is very heartfelt. I loved how obedient he is to the Holy Spirit as his travels take him among the Native Americans . Being part Comanche I was very interested in how the author would portray Native Americans and how he would use Allen to minister to them. I liked the biblical stories the author uses as he shared Allen’s travel . Abraham and Sarah lived in tents and traveled a great distance much like the Native Americans do in this story.
The author does an excellent job of showing Allen going to live with Two Rivers and learning about their culture. It is a very impressive depiction of the Native American life. Allen faces danger yet his steadfast faith will see him through . I loved how the tribe shared stories with Allen and allowed him to share Jesus with them. I absolutely loved the book and didn’t want it to end. There are nuggets of wisdom in this story that I found to be very well written. Can we be as faithful as Allen and witness to others? What can we learn from other cultures? Obedience, faith, trust and God’s love is felt as Allen encounters evil trying to kill him. The ending is so powerful I wanted to scream with joy. I am hoping the author is writing another book because I can’t wait to see what the Lord has laid on his heart through a story.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
August 25, 2020
What I think you should know:
Two Rivers by Michael Henry is a Historical Christian Fiction. It is set in the 1840s in the Oregon territory. This book is about Spiritual Warfare and the courage to share your faith in the face of adversity.
What you might need to know:
This book deals with spiritual warfare and very realistic manifestation of demons and spirits
What I think about this book:
A long time ago I was told that there are things you should not go into unprepared, you don’t do it unless you are prayed up. This is definitely one of those books for me. I was very touched by many of the things that I read in this book but I would not recommend it lightly to believers that are not strong in their faith. I recommend that prior to reading this book that you pray about reading it. I was touched how the book showed that sometimes the accepted Church is not always as strong spiritually as those who have been tested in their faith or came to their Faith after or during hardships. I love how Henry showed that through prayer and those who followed the nudge of the Holy Spirit to stand in the gap for Allen in prayer. I enjoyed getting to know the different people groups that were in the book. I appreciated the way that Henry wrote about the demons and how they could affect people, However even more than that I was thankful to show that the Power of the Holy Spirit and the prayers of the people that have been sent by the Holy Spirit are more powerful than any demon. This was definitely an eye opening book for me and one that I will be recommending to many of my Christian friends.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Two Rivers by Michael Henry is a Historical Christian Fiction. It is set in the 1840s in the Oregon territory. This book is about Spiritual Warfare and the courage to share your faith in the face of adversity.
What you might need to know:
This book deals with spiritual warfare and very realistic manifestation of demons and spirits
What I think about this book:
A long time ago I was told that there are things you should not go into unprepared, you don’t do it unless you are prayed up. This is definitely one of those books for me. I was very touched by many of the things that I read in this book but I would not recommend it lightly to believers that are not strong in their faith. I recommend that prior to reading this book that you pray about reading it. I was touched how the book showed that sometimes the accepted Church is not always as strong spiritually as those who have been tested in their faith or came to their Faith after or during hardships. I love how Henry showed that through prayer and those who followed the nudge of the Holy Spirit to stand in the gap for Allen in prayer. I enjoyed getting to know the different people groups that were in the book. I appreciated the way that Henry wrote about the demons and how they could affect people, However even more than that I was thankful to show that the Power of the Holy Spirit and the prayers of the people that have been sent by the Holy Spirit are more powerful than any demon. This was definitely an eye opening book for me and one that I will be recommending to many of my Christian friends.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
August 21, 2020
Two Rivers was unlike any book I had ever read. It was filled with angels, demons, and spiritual battles. It was definitely an interesting read.
As a book about Christianity and spiritual warfare, I did see some good faith messages that I do believe are important to know and be reminded of. There is a spiritual war going on, and oftentimes we forget. We need to remember to always trust in Christ and lean on Him instead of our own understanding. I’m sure the author presented some of his own experiences from his missionary work in his book; however, I did not agree with all the theology that was presented.
I did love learning more about the Indians and their religion. I knew very little about Native American culture and this book educated me on their traditions and lifestyle. I also like how the author didn’t paint the Indians in just one certain light-like how some books may just portray them as evil, or others just portray them as friendly and good. Instead, I believe that Michael W. Henry paints the reality. Some were evil, others were friendly. But mostly, they were just skeptical of the white man and wanted to protect their people and land.
I did like Allen Hartman’s character, and the character of Two Rivers. Hartman is definitely a man of faith, even before his journey starts. Two Rivers is a kind man, and someone who I am glad I got to know through reading this book.
I had received a copy of this book as part of the Celebrate Lit Blogging Team and was required to give an honest review.
As a book about Christianity and spiritual warfare, I did see some good faith messages that I do believe are important to know and be reminded of. There is a spiritual war going on, and oftentimes we forget. We need to remember to always trust in Christ and lean on Him instead of our own understanding. I’m sure the author presented some of his own experiences from his missionary work in his book; however, I did not agree with all the theology that was presented.
I did love learning more about the Indians and their religion. I knew very little about Native American culture and this book educated me on their traditions and lifestyle. I also like how the author didn’t paint the Indians in just one certain light-like how some books may just portray them as evil, or others just portray them as friendly and good. Instead, I believe that Michael W. Henry paints the reality. Some were evil, others were friendly. But mostly, they were just skeptical of the white man and wanted to protect their people and land.
I did like Allen Hartman’s character, and the character of Two Rivers. Hartman is definitely a man of faith, even before his journey starts. Two Rivers is a kind man, and someone who I am glad I got to know through reading this book.
I had received a copy of this book as part of the Celebrate Lit Blogging Team and was required to give an honest review.
August 17, 2020
Thought-provoking. A powerful story showing the battle between good and evil; a spiritual struggle of Light versus dark.
Told from the perspective of a Methodist Episcopal missionary, Two Rivers is an interesting glimpse into the life of those seeking to reach the Native Americans with the gospel. I couldn’t help seeing similarities between what the main character was doing and the life of David Brainerd, and while the book was set in 1840, almost one hundred years after David Brainerd lived, it was easy to imagine that their lives must have been somewhat the same.
I’m not an expert on the settling of the west by any means, but having grown up on a steady diet of westerns, I didn’t see anything that made me stop and question what the author had written. The story felt real to the time period. It also felt as though the author had thoroughly researched the Arapaho, from the customs of the tribe to the actions of the medicine man. Again, I’m no expert, but everything rang true to what I know about the Native Americans of the time.
The book was well-written. There seemed to be a good balance of dialog to prose, and I don’t remember being bored by the narration droning on. The author, it would seem, did his research well. Overall, I’d put this book in the worth reading category and would definitely read something by this author again.
I requested a copy of this book to review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
Told from the perspective of a Methodist Episcopal missionary, Two Rivers is an interesting glimpse into the life of those seeking to reach the Native Americans with the gospel. I couldn’t help seeing similarities between what the main character was doing and the life of David Brainerd, and while the book was set in 1840, almost one hundred years after David Brainerd lived, it was easy to imagine that their lives must have been somewhat the same.
I’m not an expert on the settling of the west by any means, but having grown up on a steady diet of westerns, I didn’t see anything that made me stop and question what the author had written. The story felt real to the time period. It also felt as though the author had thoroughly researched the Arapaho, from the customs of the tribe to the actions of the medicine man. Again, I’m no expert, but everything rang true to what I know about the Native Americans of the time.
The book was well-written. There seemed to be a good balance of dialog to prose, and I don’t remember being bored by the narration droning on. The author, it would seem, did his research well. Overall, I’d put this book in the worth reading category and would definitely read something by this author again.
I requested a copy of this book to review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
August 17, 2020
Two Rivers is an interesting take on cowboy novels with a strong spiritual aspect. It’s a battle of good versus evil but of the spirit world. When I saw the cover for the first time I wasn’t sure if this would be a book that was going to interest me. I’m not a huge fan of the old westerns and prefer a good mystery or romance. But I was determined to give it a good try.
After reading the description my hopes for the novel went up. It wasn’t just the classic western where good guys and bad guys shoot it out. This is a western in which good and evil fight but it’s good and evil in the spiritual sense. While this wasn’t a book that riveted me to the pages it was a good read and I did want to keep coming back and finish reading the book.
This is a great book for anyone who likes westerns but wants a solid Christian component. Happy reading!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
After reading the description my hopes for the novel went up. It wasn’t just the classic western where good guys and bad guys shoot it out. This is a western in which good and evil fight but it’s good and evil in the spiritual sense. While this wasn’t a book that riveted me to the pages it was a good read and I did want to keep coming back and finish reading the book.
This is a great book for anyone who likes westerns but wants a solid Christian component. Happy reading!
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
August 24, 2020
This is the first book that I have read by this author. This book is set in 1840 in the Oregon Territories. This is not a time period that I have read a whole lot on. This book focuses on a young man who is set to begin some missionary work. As he starts his travels - he encounters a lot of "road blocks" in his journey. Pastor Allen will learn how to cast out demons (which I have seen - and is very surreal), and deal with other aspects of spiritual warfare. Pastor Allen is very secure in his calling -and is very obedient to the Holy Spirit. Since he will be a missionary to the Native Americans -this book will deal with witchcraft a bit. However, it is done with grace and God's glory shining through.
This book is well written, informative and flowed nicely. The author has done great research to educate on Native American culture and religion.
I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program. All thoughts are my own.
This book is well written, informative and flowed nicely. The author has done great research to educate on Native American culture and religion.
I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program. All thoughts are my own.
August 17, 2020
Two Rivers is a great debut by Michael W Henry. This is one of those books that is so detailed, readers feel as though they are part of the story. I loved every single page. I could not put it down and wound up staying up all night to finish it. It was a wonderful journey to take with Allen and I just had to find out where his adventures would end. It is a story full of faith that really made me sit and think.
I am giving Two Rivers a very well deserved 5 plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy clean and inspirational historical fiction. I will most definitely be looking forward for more by Mr. Henry in the future. I would love to know what other tales he has in store for his readers.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am giving Two Rivers a very well deserved 5 plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy clean and inspirational historical fiction. I will most definitely be looking forward for more by Mr. Henry in the future. I would love to know what other tales he has in store for his readers.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
August 23, 2020
I was expecting a somewhat straightforward western with this book, but I got so much more. It is a western I guess at it's core but it also had suspense, spiritual battles, celestial beings. There is just a lot there to take in and this book will stick with me for quite a long time.
I truly enjoyed the author's writing style. He has a way of saying something that can mean multiple things and you have to pay attention because there is a depth to most everything. The actual story was really good, but the dept made it even better.
It is a 4/5 for me.
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
I truly enjoyed the author's writing style. He has a way of saying something that can mean multiple things and you have to pay attention because there is a depth to most everything. The actual story was really good, but the dept made it even better.
It is a 4/5 for me.
Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
August 15, 2020
"Two Rivers" by Micheal W.Henry is a great book. I have to be honest once again and say that I wouldn't have picked this book. But, I loved this book .This story clearly shows that what we think and what God has plans aren't the same. I really encourage readers to not judge this book by the cover. Yes, it is a book about Indians but so much more. I wanted to keep reading after I read the last page. I would really like to read more about these characters. The ending left me feeling happy. This book is truly A "Wow" book to me.
I received a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.
August 27, 2020
This book intrigued me but also set me on edge a bit. I found the storyline very unique but at the same time having a bit of a "Frank Peretti" feel to it. The characters were ones I found myself relating to, they were well-built and fit the time period exactly.
I wasn't quite prepared for the dive into the unseen world that the author took. It was super intense, but the spiritual battle was definitely there. I'm all too aware of how real that battle is and I'm not sure how I felt about it as I found myself squirming sometimes.
Overall, I would recommend this book but with the disclaimer that not all might appreciate the content.
*I received this book for review from Celebrate Lit
I wasn't quite prepared for the dive into the unseen world that the author took. It was super intense, but the spiritual battle was definitely there. I'm all too aware of how real that battle is and I'm not sure how I felt about it as I found myself squirming sometimes.
Overall, I would recommend this book but with the disclaimer that not all might appreciate the content.
*I received this book for review from Celebrate Lit
November 6, 2023
Great portrait of the 1820’s and the untamed west. A missionary group heads to change the culture of the Indians and the Wild West. Spiritual warfare and many miracles occur.
August 26, 2020
I was really intrigued by the idea of this story line. I am always eager to read more about Native Americans and so I was excited to see where this story might lead. To be honest the first part of the book was a bit of a let down. It went a different direction than I was expecting and I will say I wasn't sure I would be able to finish. Then about half way through I started to be more interested in the stories and the characters. I liked the setting and of course the cover is wonderful. I don't necessarily agree with everything in this book but it was an interesting read.
Three Stars.
"I received this book from the publisher for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review. "
Three Stars.
"I received this book from the publisher for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review. "
April 23, 2023
What a book! From the first chapter until the end, this book holds your attention. The attention to detail and all of the research necessary are evident in the vivid descriptions. Transporting you back in time you become lost in history. Thd fight between hood and evil plays out creatively. The scriptures and inspirational messages resonate. Well worth the read.
This book was provided by the author through Celebrate Lit for me to read. The opinions expressed here are my own.
This book was provided by the author through Celebrate Lit for me to read. The opinions expressed here are my own.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews